The Toronto Blue Jays are gearing up for a crucial weekend series against the Boston Red Sox with a solid 43-37 record, sitting third in the AL East. Despite battling injuries, they are still in the playoff race, trailing the Tampa Bay Rays by just half a game. A significant factor in the lineup’s potential for improvement is the return of veteran center fielder Daulton Varsho, who has been sidelined since May due to a hamstring injury. His recovery is progressing, and he could soon resume running the bases, which bodes well for both his play and the team's overall performance.

Varsho's absence has left a gap in the outfield, but he had previously showcased impressive stats this season, including eight home runs and 20 RBIs in just 24 games. His return would not only enhance the offensive capabilities of the Blue Jays but also reinforce their defensive prowess in center field. The Blue Jays, who have struggled away from home this season at 18-21, will look to capitalize on Varsho's return as they face the Red Sox at Fenway Park.

Toronto Blue Jays outfielder Daulton Varsho has shown flashes of potential this season but struggles have held him back. After being drafted in 2017, Varsho had a standout season in 2022 with 27 homers and 74 RBI for the Arizona Diamondbacks. However, his performance dipped slightly in 2023 with 20 homers and 61 RBI for the Blue Jays so far. Despite recent injury concerns, he remains a key player as Toronto fights for a playoff spot, currently trailing the New York Yankees by three games in the AL East.

In the latest updates, Varsho is expected back in the lineup soon, alongside fellow teammates recovering from injuries like Yimi Garcia and Bowden Francis. The Blue Jays are currently holding the second AL Wild Card spot and are hoping for a strong finish to the season, facing the Chicago White Sox in their upcoming series.

Nathan Lukes has returned to the Toronto Blue Jays lineup after a brief stint on the injured list due to a concussion. He was crucially integrated into the batting order against the Chicago White Sox, hitting seventh in left field. Before his injury, Lukes was performing well with a .267 batting average, four home runs, and 21 RBIs.

The Blue Jays also reinstated pitcher Nick Sandlin from the 15-day injured list, while optioning Justin Bruihl and Will Robertson to triple-A Buffalo. Meanwhile, Max Scherzer is on track to start against the Cleveland Guardians next week following a successful bullpen session. Other injury updates include Daulton Varsho, who is expected to return to games soon, while Yimi Garcia is scheduled to pitch in a single-A game, and Bowden Francis continues his recovery after a cortisone injection.

The Toronto Blue Jays have been on a tear, winning 12 of their last 14 and earning a playoff spot, while the Arizona Diamondbacks are hot in the National League with a 9-4 record this June. Their matchup brings to mind last year's pivotal trade, sending Lourdes Gurriel Jr. and top prospect Gabriel Moreno to the D-backs in exchange for Daulton Varsho. Initially viewed as a lopsided deal, especially after Arizona reached the World Series, the narrative is shifting as Varsho's defensive prowess begins to showcase his value.

Manager John Schneider acknowledges that while Varsho's offensive stats have been underwhelming, his gold-glove defense and leadership are invaluable. In contrast, Gurriel and Moreno have thrived in Arizona, significantly contributing to their postseason success. This evolving perspective on the trade illustrates how both teams may ultimately benefit from their decisions, as the Blue Jays adapt to a new model of play focusing on defense over slugging.

Injuries are a reality in fantasy baseball, especially during the 2025 season. As we analyze potential waiver wire pickups, several players are emerging as valuable stash options for fantasy managers looking to optimize their rosters.

Max Scherzer of the Toronto Blue Jays is a notable name, currently rostered in only 32% of Yahoo leagues. After a thumb injury sidelined him, Scherzer is set for a rehab start, and if he can regain his elite form, he could be a significant contributor to fantasy teams upon his return. Yimi Garcia, also of the Blue Jays, is expected back from shoulder fatigue with a respectable ERA of 3.15, making him an appealing choice for managers needing relief pitching.

Meanwhile, Wilyer Abreu of the Boston Red Sox, while already 60% rostered, is returning from an oblique injury and boasts impressive power stats, including 13 home runs this season. On the other hand, Ezequiel Tovar of the Colorado Rockies is a promising shortstop option, showing signs of solid hitting before his recent injury.

Lastly, Daulton Varsho, also with the Blue Jays, is worth monitoring as he recovers from an injury and has shown potential against right-handed pitching.